The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is a culinary delight that embodies the essence of autumn in a bowl. This popular dish from Sweetgreen, a renowned chain specializing in fresh, farm-to-table salads, is a testament to the company’s commitment to offering nutritious, flavorful meals that cater to a health-conscious audience. The Harvest Bowl is meticulously crafted with a base of warm wild rice, which provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
It features a bounty of seasonal vegetables, including roasted sweet potatoes that add a natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins and fiber. Kale, a superfood known for its nutrient density, adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet elements. The bowl is garnished with crunchy almonds, which introduce a delightful textural contrast and are a great source of healthy fats and protein.
Goat cheese is sprinkled on top, offering a creamy tanginess that balances the bowl’s flavors. The dish is then finished with a balsamic vinaigrette, lending a tart and sweet flavor that ties all the components together. The Harvest Bowl Sweetgreen is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce and a testament to the beauty of blending simple ingredients to create a satisfying, healthful dining experience.
Prep time
20 minutes
Cook time
45 minutes
Course
Main course
Cuisine
American
Servings
4 persons
Kitchen Tools Needed
Chef’s Knife
Cutting Board
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Mixing Bowls
Whisk
Salad Spinner (optional, for washing kale)
Saucepan (for cooking wild rice)
Roasting Pan (for vegetables)
Ingredients for Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
1 cup wild rice
4 cups kale, destemmed and chopped
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup almonds, chopped
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: dried cranberries for garnish
How To Make Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
Cook the Wild Rice
Rinse the wild rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer.
Cook the rice according to package instructions, typically 1 cup of wild rice to 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the water. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the sweet potatoes: Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
Prepare the Kale
Wash and chop the kale, removing the tough stems.
Massage the kale with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt for 2-3 minutes, or until the kale starts to soften and wilt slightly. Set aside.
Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette
Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, remaining olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
Assemble the Bowl
In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and massaged kale.
Add the chopped almonds and crumbled goat cheese to the bowl.
Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette and gently toss to combine everything.
Serve
Divide the mixture evenly among four bowls.
Garnish with additional almonds, goat cheese, and optional dried cranberries if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl.
What To Serve With Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl?
Grilled Chicken Breast: For those looking for a protein boost, a simply seasoned grilled chicken breast complements the flavors of the Harvest Bowl, adding a lean, meaty texture.
Garlic Herb Shrimp: Seafood lovers can enjoy garlic herb shrimp as a light, flavorful pairing that adds a zesty contrast to the bowl’s earthy and sweet notes.
Roasted Chickpeas: For a vegetarian protein option, roasted chickpeas offer a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that meshes well with the bowl’s ingredients.
Simple Green Salad: A side of green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty Harvest Bowl, balancing the meal.
Artisan Bread: A slice of warm, crusty artisan bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing in the bowl, adding a comforting carbohydrate element.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: A side of quinoa tabbouleh, with its fresh parsley, mint, and lemon juice, introduces a bright, herby dimension that pairs nicely with the bowl’s depth.
Sweet Potato Fries: For a fun twist, sweet potato fries bring a sweet and salty crunch, echoing the sweet potatoes in the bowl while adding a different texture.
Apple Cider Vinegar Slaw: A tangy slaw made with apple cider vinegar complements the bowl’s sweetness with a refreshing acidity, adding a crunchy texture contrast.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and a buttery texture that seamlessly blends with the other elements of the Harvest Bowl.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For an extra dose of greens, roasted Brussels sprouts with a touch of balsamic glaze can enhance the bowl’s earthy flavors with their caramelized edges.
Making Ahead, Storage and Reheating
Make Ahead
Pre-cook the wild rice: Cook the wild rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cuts down on preparation time when assembling the bowl.
Roast the sweet potatoes ahead: Roast the sweet potatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can easily be reheated or served cold in the bowl.
Prep the kale: Wash, dry, and chop the kale, storing it in a salad spinner or airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. It stays fresh for 2-3 days.
Prepare the dressing: The balsamic vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to a week. Shake well before using.
Storage
Refrigerate separately: Store the cooked components (wild rice, roasted sweet potatoes) separately from the raw components (kale, almonds, goat cheese) to maintain texture and freshness.
Airtight containers: Use airtight containers for each component to keep ingredients fresh and prevent them from absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
Store dressing separately: To prevent the kale from becoming soggy, store the balsamic vinaigrette separately and dress the bowl just before serving.
Reheating
Oven reheating: For best results, reheat the wild rice and sweet potatoes together in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain their texture.
Microwave with care: If using a microwave, cover the rice and sweet potatoes with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until just warmed through.
Avoid reheating the entire bowl: To maintain the freshness of the kale, almonds, and goat cheese, add these components after reheating the base of the bowl.
Health benefits of Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The kale and sweet potatoes in the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl are powerhouses of nutrients, offering vitamins A, C, and K, along with potassium and iron, supporting overall health, immune function, and bone health.
High in Dietary Fiber: With ingredients like wild rice and sweet potatoes, this bowl is packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full longer.
Heart-Healthy Fats: The almonds and olive oil provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, known for their heart-healthy benefits, including lowering bad cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Protein Options: Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas as suggested serves as an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, making it a well-rounded meal for post-workout recovery or maintaining muscle health.
Antioxidant-Rich: Ingredients like kale and sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, which fight against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, contributing to overall health and prevention of chronic diseases.
Weight Management: The high fiber content and the presence of protein in the bowl contribute to satiety, helping in weight management by reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Supports Bone Health: The vitamin K in kale is vital for bone health, as it helps in the absorption of calcium and may reduce the risk of bone fractures.
Boosts Immunity: The vitamin C found in kale and sweet potatoes acts as an immune booster, helping the body’s defenses against infections and diseases.
Enhances Gut Health: The fiber in the bowl supports a healthy gut by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which is crucial for digestion and overall health.
Energy Boosting: The complex carbohydrates in wild rice and sweet potatoes provide a steady release of energy, making the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl an excellent meal option for sustaining energy levels throughout the day.
Variations and Substitutions
Variations
Autumn Squash Addition: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or pumpkin to add a sweet and earthy flavor, perfect for fall.
Quinoa Base: Substitute wild rice with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed alternative that adds a fluffy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle chili flakes over the top for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Mediterranean Twist: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and swap the goat cheese for feta, adding a tangy, Mediterranean flavor.
Crunchy Seeds: Sprinkle pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of almonds for a different kind of crunch and a boost of minerals.
Fruit Infusion: Add diced apples or pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and a colorful presentation.
Leafy Greens Mix: Use a blend of baby spinach and arugula in place of kale for a varied texture and flavor profile.
Substitutions
For Wild Rice: Couscous or farro can be used as an alternative grain, offering a different texture and nuttiness.
For Sweet Potatoes: Roasted carrots or parsnips make a great substitute, maintaining the sweet component with a different root vegetable twist.
For Kale: Swiss chard or collard greens can be used as a hearty green alternative, providing a similar nutritional profile.
For Goat Cheese: Ricotta or cottage cheese can be substituted for a creamier texture, or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
For Almonds: Walnuts or pecans can replace almonds, offering a new flavor and texture contrast.
For Balsamic Vinaigrette: Lemon tahini dressing or apple cider vinegar dressing can be used for a different acidic touch and flavor profile.
For Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent vegan options that still provide the desired sweetness in the dressing.
Tips and Tricks
Enhance the Flavor of Wild Rice: Toast the wild rice in a dry skillet for a few minutes before cooking. This will bring out a nutty flavor that adds depth to the dish.
Achieve Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For even roasting, cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. Toss them lightly with olive oil and spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch for better airflow and caramelization.
Massage Your Kale: Don’t skip massaging the kale with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt. This simple step softens the leaves, making them more palatable and easier to digest.
Get Creative with Dressing: Experiment with the balsamic vinaigrette by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice for an extra layer of flavor.
Toast the Almonds: Before adding them to the bowl, toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until they’re golden brown. This enhances their crunch and flavor, adding a toasty aroma to the dish.
Balance the Goat Cheese: If you find goat cheese too tangy, blend it with a bit of cream cheese to mellow out the flavor while maintaining its creamy texture.
Customize Your Protein: While the bowl is vegetarian as is, feel free to add grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon for an extra protein boost. Marinate your protein choice in a bit of the balsamic dressing before cooking for added flavor.
Make It Vegan: Easily make this bowl vegan by substituting the honey in the dressing with maple syrup and using a plant-based cheese or omitting the cheese altogether.
Layer for Lunch Prep: If you’re preparing this bowl for meal prep, layer the ingredients in mason jars or containers, starting with the dressing at the bottom, followed by the heavier, heartier ingredients, and finishing with the lighter, leafy greens on top. This keeps everything fresh until you’re ready to eat.
Play with Textures: Add a variety of textures by including ingredients like crispy chickpeas, pomegranate seeds, or fresh herbs. This not only adds nutritional value but also makes each bite interesting and satisfying.
Absolutely! To make the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl vegan, simply substitute the goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it entirely. For the honey in the dressing, maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect vegan-friendly options. These substitutions keep the essence of the dish while ensuring it aligns with vegan dietary preferences.
There are several ways to boost the protein content: Consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, tempeh, or edamame for a substantial protein increase. These ingredients can be seasoned and cooked to complement the flavors of the bowl, making it a more filling and balanced meal.
Yes, it is! The Harvest Bowl, as outlined, is naturally gluten-free, thanks to its focus on whole, unprocessed ingredients like vegetables, wild rice, and nuts. Always ensure that any added sauces or proteins are also gluten-free to maintain the dish’s suitability for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Properly stored, the components of the Harvest Bowl can last: Cooked wild rice and roasted sweet potatoes can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. If you keep the dressing separate and the greens fresh, you can assemble the bowl up to 2 days in advance. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to assemble the bowl fresh or store components separately and assemble before eating.
Certainly! While sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness and texture to the bowl, you can substitute them with butternut squash, carrots, or even roasted beets. Each alternative brings its own flavor and nutritional profile, allowing you to customize the bowl to your taste preferences or seasonal availability.
Conclusion
The Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl is a testament to the power of combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a meal that is not only nourishing but also deeply satisfying. Its blend of hearty wild rice, earthy kale, sweet roasted sweet potatoes, crunchy almonds, and tangy goat cheese, all brought together with a balsamic vinaigrette, showcases a harmony of flavors and textures. This dish is a celebration of seasonal produce and nutritional balance, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthful meal.
The versatility of the Harvest Bowl, with its endless options for variations and substitutions, ensures that it can be adapted to suit any dietary need or preference, making it a staple in the repertoire of health-conscious eaters. Ultimately, the Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl epitomizes the ethos of eating well: it’s about enjoying the richness of what the earth offers, in its most natural and flavorful form.
